ATLANTA, Oct. 27 The Georgia Pecan Commission has launched "Georgia Pecans Fit! for Breakfast," a new campaign that emphasizes healthy morning eating habits. It is being promoted with new findings from a survey of EatingWell.com newsletter subscribers, information about the health benefits of eating pecans and breakfast recipes from a James Beard award-winning chef.

Nutrition is a priority to consumers when making breakfast choices, reveals a September 2008 survey of EatingWell food enthusiasts. It also finds that 76% of respondents said they eat breakfast every day. Regarding nut consumption, more than 45% of the respondents said they eat nuts once a week, while 38% said on a daily basis.

Peacock has created two pecan-inspired breakfast recipes: Georgia Pecan Muesli and Georgia Pecan Breakfast Spread. In addition to Peacock's recipes, a new breakfast brochure and other recipes are available on the Georgia Pecan Commission's Web site, GeorgiaPecansFit.org. The recipe for Georgia Pecan Muesli was inspired by Peacock's signature brunch menu item at Watershed restaurant. Both recipes emphasize Chef Peacock's passion for flavorful southern dishes with quality yet healthful ingredients.

Nutty Nutrition

The breakfast campaign also emphasizes nutritional information and the health benefits of incorporating pecans into a balanced breakfast. Researchers worldwide have concluded that starting the day off with a nutritious meal may play a critical role in appetite and weight control, reducing the risk of chronic diseases and improving the overall nutritional quality of a diet.

"In the last two years alone, well over 100 studies have provided proof of the benefits of breakfast," said Densie Webb, Ph.D., the Georgia Pecan Commission's nutrition consultant. "Georgia pecans fit right in."

According to a comparison done by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, pecans contain more antioxidants than any other nut, making them a healthy immunity-boosting ingredient. A one-ounce serving of pecans (19-20) halves contains 196 calories, almost 3 grams of dietary fiber and more than 19 vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A and E, and the minerals calcium, potassium and zinc. They are also an excellent source of oleic acid, the same type of heart-healthy fat found in olive and canola oils.

Georgia historically produces more pecans than any other state in the nation. With the peak of the fall harvest in November, it is no wonder that the state's governors have traditionally proclaimed November as "Georgia Pecan Month." The 2008 pecan harvest -- from mid-Oct. through Dec. -- is projected to yield 75 to 80 million pounds of Georgia pecans.

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